FAQs

Will my child engage online?

Many children (and therefore parents), did not have a great experience of online learning during the respective lockdowns. This has left many a little cynical about its value, having not seen it done well. We offer a bespoke online service. The pupils learn in a live interactive environment, where work set and assessed in real time. Engagement is therefore at the heart of what we do and indeed what makes us able to excel.

What do we need to access online learning?

All lessons are web based, meaning that your child can access everything they need with just a tablet, desktop or laptop. Ideally they would engage their tutor by Zoom on a laptop or desk top, whilst completing their work on a tablet, however, just one device will suffice!

What does the FREE tutoring session involve?

This is a chance for you and your child to look at how we teach online and for us to get basic assessment of their ability and learning style. Prior to the session we will send you instructions on how and where to log in, in order to maximise the value of the lesson.
What is provided under the home-schooling option?

The home-schooling option delivers a full UK curriculum over the course of three terms. In essence this comprises of daily maths and English lessons, followed by a further subject. In addition, a piece of homework is set each day.

Is the homework compulsory?

No – but it certainly adds value.

Does home-schooling with the Prep School Online support the National Curriculum?

Yes, all teaching with the Prep School Online is based on and aligned with the UK National Curriculum.

Where is classwork and homework and homework uploaded? 

When your child signs up to home-schooling, they will be sent login details for an online learning platform called Showbie. This is effectively an online exercise book which is divided into subjects and then subdivided into topics. This means that the teacher, parents and pupil are always able to access and review work from any device and from anywhere.

This can be accessed from any online device such as a laptop or tablet.

Work can be written and uploaded or in some instances completed online.

How is the Prep School Online different from private tutors and other options?

All teaching is provided live and online, therefore convenient for children and their families wherever they are in the country or indeed the world.

Teaching will always be provided by qualified teachers with experience of teaching in a British Prep school.

Parents can access their children’s lessons and their children’s ‘books’ online, so that they can monitor their child’s progress at their convenience.

What is Cross-Curricular learning?

Cross-Curricular learning prepares the way for students to learn and work together, which is more reflective of real life. Very few people do their jobs without collaborating with co-workers, so this type of instruction is a training ground for future interactions. 

Moving away from merely memorising facts, Cross Curricular learning encourages students to make their own connections and draw their own conclusions based on the material. 

Can we stop my home-schooling package?

Of course – however we will require at least half a term’s notice (i.e. before the start date of the next published half term).

Is there a limit to the class sizes?

Yes – classes are strictly limited to 12. This strikes the best balance between the ability to offer personal support and the opportunity for children to learn from and off each other.

This will be their class for the term or year. Accordingly, they will be able to develop relationships with children of their own age within an academic setting.

Are parents welcome?

Yes – with a caveat!

One huge advantage of online home-schooling is that you can, if you wish, see exactly what you are paying for. We are more than happy for you to ‘inspect what you expect’. However, in practice, it would not be ideal for parents to contribute or actively engage in lessons. Teachers are available to meet online outside of lessons to discuss any questions or concerns you might have in addition to the termly reports (below).

How do I know how much progress my child is making?

There will ongoing end of topic assessments for most topics – this will always be made available to parents.

There will be a termly half hour video meeting whereby your child’s teacher can update you personally on your child’s progress.